“The UI extension is important for citizens here in the state of Nevada,” Heller said. “Keep in mind these are people that work hard, that are looking for work, that have lost their job, it’s not their fault.”

Upon hearing Heller's comments about setting up a meeting with Boehner, Reid praised the speaker and said that despite differences Congress has not been without its accomplishments this year, including raising the debt ceiling and passing an omnibus appropriations bill.

He also said that whenever they meet, they always meet in Boehner's office, so the speaker can smoke.

“Let me say one thing that I think might be interesting to your viewing audience,” Reid said. “We kick around John Boehner often, but I have a wonderful relationship with him. He’s the nicest guy.”

“And every meeting that I have with him takes place in his office,” Reid continued. “You know [the] protocol is you go back and forth. But we decided to do it that way because John Boehner smokes, and he smokes a lot. I don’t want him smoking in my office, so every meeting we’ve had has been in his office. And usually he smokes a cigarette about every ten minutes. I am glad he is able to smoke, it keeps him pacified and we have been able actually to get some things worked out.”

The Senate bill has been criticized by Boehner, R-Ohio, as unworkable over concerns regarding implementation, and for failing to add additional jobs measures. Backers have cited, however, CBO estimates showing it would add jobs and a letter from Labor Secretary Thomas E. Perez assuring it can be implemented.